According to Lao Dong Newspaper, for about a week now, in the afternoons, dozens of boat teams from the pagodas of Tak Pray, Kh'leang, chroi sum ch fact, Phnoroka, Potisatharam, Sang Ke, ... have been going down to Maspero canal (Phu Loi ward and Soc Trang ward, Can Tho city) where the Ngo boat racing will take place for another week to practice and test speed. Some teams also organize test matches, creating a vibrant atmosphere.
The October Om Boc - Soc Trang Boat Race Ceremony in 2024 created a highlight with the unique ngo boat of KosThum Pagoda (old Bac Lieu province) unexpectedly winning the Second place, surpassing many strong teams of Soc Trang province. That success has led to many investment teams building new uniquely built boats this year, promising dramatic and exciting competitions.
A representative of the Ngo boat team of the Tak Pray pagoda (Long Phu commune) said: "This year the pagoda has a unique boat, with sophisticated patterns and good water surfing, so the brothers are very excited. We are focusing on training and adjusting the rhythm to achieve a high ranking".
Although the festival had not yet been held, many people came to cheer for the boat teams. Mr. La Hoang Linh, a Khmer person who carries construction materials, shared: "I go out to see it every day. Boat racing is a joy, an identity, and the blood of our Khmer people".
Ms. Thach Thi Len (Thanh Thoi An commune, Can Tho city) said: "My house was 20km away, today I went to see a doctor and stopped by to see a boat for exercise. The atmosphere is as happy as Tet.
The Ooc Om Boc - Ngo Boat Race Festival in Can Tho City in 2025 will take place from November 3 to 5 in Phu Loi Ward and Soc Trang Ward with many rich activities such as: opening ceremony, moon worship ceremony, releasing Loi protip water lanterns and Ca Hau boats, trade promotion fair for OCOP products and regional specialties.
The highlight is the Ngo Boat Race on the Maspero Canal, taking place over 2 days, November 4-5. Up to this point, 61 boat teams have registered to participate, including 53 men's teams and 8 women's teams in and outside Can Tho City.
The teams will compete in the two distances of 1,200m for men and 1,000m for women, the qualifying round, semi-finals and finals, promising to bring a bustling atmosphere, attracting a large number of people and tourists.
Below is a photo of the practice atmosphere of the boat teams on the Maspero canal.
